Tips for Handling Multiple Job Offers Without Going Insane

It’s every job seekers dream. Imagine the thrill of getting multiple job offers from companies that want to hire you, now. But before you do cartwheels around the house, remember that this can be a confusing time too, filled with worry over what job will provide the best option for your career path. It can be difficult to decide what job offer will give you the compensation and professional reward you deserve.

How to handle multiple job offers

Before you stress out, remember that this could be the single-most amazing opportunity of your lifetime to take on a new career that can set the stage for your future success. You’ll want to carefully weigh all the pros and cons of each job offer before voicing your decision.

To make sure the job offers are still on the table during your decision, ask each recruiter or hiring manager if you can have at least a couple of days to mull it over. You can mention that you need to discuss this with your spouse, if it makes it easier and less awkward. Most hiring managers understand this and will oblige.

Write out your personal, career and earning goals for one year from now.

Decide for yourself what it’s going to take for you to experience career satisfaction in the next 12-month period. Will it be to earn more money, grow in knowledge, or work for a leading company in your field? Understanding what’s important to you can help you make a well-planned decision.

Jot down the offer from each company on a separate card.

Getting several job offers at once can be overwhelming. Take a moment to write down the positives and negatives of each job offer. Putting them into black and white can give you a better perspective. Consider factors like the cost of living in the new region you may have to relocate to, the corporate culture, and any perks of the job.

Match the job offers to your personal, career goals and earning needs.

Now compare the jobs you are being offered as they relate to your 12-month goal plan. You should start seeing how one or two of the jobs match up. Then go back through the list and see what job matches the goals you have set forth, without compromising.

Sleep, meditate, and pray on this for at least 24 hours to make sure.

Now that you have made an initial decision, take some time to absorb and think on this. You can make a better decision once you do this. Sleep, pray, meditate, talk to friends, listen to music, mind map, whatever you need to do to help you make your final decision with clarity.

Contact the hiring manager at the job that meets most of your criteria.

Now you can get in touch with the hiring manager representing the best job offer you have chosen. Let them know you have decided to move forward and find out what next steps you need to take. Let your current employer know you are leaving (with a 2 week notice) once you have a formal offer letter in your hands.

Thank the other hiring managers and ask them to keep you in mind for future opportunities.

Take the time to thank the hiring manager(s) at the other companies that you did not choose. Let them know you have accepted another offer. They may ask you if they can top the offer from the competitor. It’s up to you to decide if you want to consider this or not. Most of all, thank them for their generous offer and let them know you’d like them to keep your information on file if a future assignment opens up.

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